How you prepare

Food and medications

Several days before surgery, your doctor might recommend that you stop taking blood thinners — such as warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven) or clopidogrel (Plavix) — which increase your risk of bleeding. You're also likely to be prescribed an antibiotic to prevent a urinary tract infection.

Other precautions

Arrange transportation home. You won't be able to drive after the procedure that day or generally if you have a catheter in your bladder.

You might not be able to work or do strenuous activity for two to three days after surgery. Ask your doctor how much recovery time you might need.

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